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{{ArticleIcons|ssb4=y}}
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{{Disambig2|Cloud's appearance in ''Super Smash Bros. 4''|the character in other contexts|Cloud Strife}}
{{recent release}}
{{disambig2|Cloud's appearance in ''Super Smash Bros. 4''|the character in other contexts|Cloud Strife}}
{{Infobox Character
{{Infobox Character
|name = Cloud
|name = Cloud
|image = {{tabber|title1=Final Fantasy VII|content1=[[File:Cloud SSB4.png|x250px]]|title2=Advent Children|content2=[[File:Cloud Advent Children SSB4.png|x250px]]}}
|image = [[File:Cloud SSB4.png|255px]]
|game = SSB4
|game = SSB4
|ssbgame1 = Ultimate
|universe = {{uv|Final Fantasy}}
|universe = {{uv|Final Fantasy}}
|availability = [[Downloadable content (SSB4)|Downloadable]]
|availability = [[Downloadable content|Downloadable]]
|tier = S
|ranking = 2-3
}}
}}
:{{Cquote|''Cloud Storms Into Battle!''|cite=Introduction Tagline}}
:{{cquote|Cloud Storms Into Battle!|cite=Introduction Tagline}}
'''Cloud''' ({{ja|クラウド|Kuraudo}}, ''Cloud'') is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''. He was officially announced during the November 12th, 2015 [[Nintendo Direct]], and released as the fifth [[Downloadable content (SSB4)|downloadable character]] on December 15th, 2015. He is one of six third-party characters in the game, alongside [[Capcom]]'s {{SSB4|Mega Man}} and {{SSB4|Ryu}}, [[Sega]]'s {{SSB4|Sonic}} and {{SSB4|Bayonetta}}, and [[Bandai Namco]]'s {{SSB4|Pac-Man}}.
'''Cloud''' ({{ja|クラウド|Kuraudo}}, ''Cloud'') is a playable character and newcomer in ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]'' as the fifth [[downloadable content|downloadable character]]. He was announced during the November 12th, 2015 [[Nintendo Direct]], and released on December 15th, 2015. Cloud is the fifth third-party character to be introduced in the game, following [[Capcom]]'s {{SSB4|Mega Man}} and {{SSB4|Ryu}}, [[Sega|SEGA]]'s {{SSB4|Sonic}} and {{SSB4|Bayonetta}}, and [[Bandai Namco]]'s {{SSB4|Pac-Man}}.  


In all [[region]]s, Cloud is voiced by {{s|wikipedia|Takahiro Sakurai}}, his official Japanese voice actor from ''{{iw|khwiki|Kingdom Hearts|game}}'' onward. This is likely because his original English voice actor, {{iw|wikipedia|Steve Burton|actor}} (who voiced Cloud in English from ''Kingdom Hearts'' to ''{{s|wikipedia|Dissidia Final Fantasy NT}}'') is a union-based voice actor.
In all versions of ''Super Smash Bros. 4'', he is voiced in Japanese by Takahiro Sakurai, similar to {{SSB4|Marth}} and {{SSB4|Roy}}.
 
Cloud is ranked 2nd/3rd out of 54 on the [[tier list]], tying him with {{SSB4|Diddy Kong}} and placing him in the S tier. The [[Buster Sword]] grants him some of the greatest [[reach]] and longest [[disjoint]]ed hitboxes of any character; furthermore, he is highly mobile both in the air and on the ground, with a fast [[dash]] and high [[air speed]]. This, together with surprisingly fast frame data for a character of his range and power, grants Cloud potent zoning, [[spacing]], and [[neutral game]]s. The speed and utility of his [[aerial attack]]s make him dangerous in the air, and his attacks flow together well, letting him [[combo]] with ease. Cloud can also force [[approach]]es by using [[Limit Charge]], while a full [[charge]] boosts his mobility even further and significantly strengthens his [[special move]]s.
 
Despite his strengths, Cloud has his fair share of flaws. Cloud's primary flaw is his poor [[recovery]]. Despite his aerial maneuverability and an effective [[wall jump]], [[Climhazzard]] gains very little height and no horizontal distance; its inability to [[sweetspot]] [[edge]]s for most of its duration also leaves him vulnerable to [[gimp]]ing. His KO ability is weaker if Limit Break is not fully charged, as many of his strongest attacks are risky to use due to their punishability if missed. Furthermore, his attacks require precise spacing to be safely and effectively landed, especially off-stage. Cloud also has difficulty approaching from the ground, due to his unsafe ground attacks, and [[Blade Beam]], his only projectile, is slow and punishable when not under the effects of Limit; additionally, his grab is one of the shortest of the cast, and his throws generally have low damage output and very little combo potential. Finally, Cloud's height, average [[weight]] and [[falling speed]] make him very susceptible to combos.
 
Despite his flaws and risks, Cloud's innate strengths have allowed him to maintain excellent tournament results, with a large playerbase that either use him as a [[main]] or as a fallback [[pocket character]].


==Attributes==
==Attributes==
Cloud is a [[Weight|middleweight]] swordfighter with surprisingly quick mobility overall. He has average [[walking speed]], the tenth fastest [[dash]]ing speed, above-average [[air speed]], average [[air acceleration]], and a fast [[jumpsquat]], granting him both quick ground and aerial mobility. He has above average [[falling speed]] and high [[gravity]], however, preventing him from staying in the air for long despite his good aerial maneuverability. Under Limit Break status, his mobility is even better; his traction slightly improves, his walking speed becomes the eleventh fastest, his dashing speed the fifth fastest, his falling speed the fourth fastest, and his airspeed becomes the fastest in the game under normal circumstances (only being slower than the lightest possible {{SSB4|Mii Brawler}}, [[Wario-Man]], and [[Giga Mac]]). His increased gravity and falling speed, however, make his jumps slightly lower and prevent him from auto-canceling some of his [[aerial attack]]s (notably [[back aerial]] and [[up aerial]]) as easily. As a result, his Limit Break status only marginally benefits his aerial mobility, but it can nevertheless help him move along the ground better.
Cloud's playstyle depends heavily on his unique ability, [[Limit Charge|Limit Break]], which gives his special moveset considerably high power that can KO opponents earlier than most other characters. Along with it boosting his ground/air movement stats slightly while on standby, this makes it imperative for Cloud to keep his Limit Break's charge at high or full for the majority of the neutral game. This makes him comparable to a combination of Ike and Little Mac (in addition to a projectile attack), with an effective, powerful and long reaching sword along with somewhat mediocre recovery and a high comeback ability.  
 
Cloud's greatest asset is the overall [[range]] throughout his moveset, courtesy of his Buster Sword: it grants Cloud's attacks the overall second longest [[disjointed]] range in the game, surpassed only by {{SSB4|Shulk}}. Thanks to his range and speed, Cloud can space out the opponent quite easily, stuff out opposing [[approach]]es and adeptly [[Punishment|punish]] most careless attacks. A prime example of this trait is Cloud's aerial attacks: his [[neutral aerial]] covers a very wide area, making it a go-to option for spacing or air-to-ground transition movement. It is also very fast on both ends, can [[autocancel]] from a short hop, and has a low launching angle, all of which make it a great [[edgeguarding]] tool despite its low [[knockback]].
 
His up aerial has good [[damage]] output, decent knockback, high speed, a long duration, a very generous autocancel window, and an enormous overall hitbox, making it an all-purpose attack and discouraging most opponents from trying to attack Cloud from overhead. His [[down aerial]] is not only a very strong [[meteor smash]] when sweetspotted, but also possesses one of the most active late hitboxes in the game, which grants it good anti-juggling potential and allows him to follow up into another move if it connects while he is falling. Like up aerial, it also has a long autocancel window, being able to autocancel from a jump regardless of his Limit Break status. Back aerial has tremendous range, decent power, and the lowest [[landing lag]] among Cloud's aerials, and also autocancels from a short hop, allowing him to edgeguard and space effectively, though it can often miss low opponents. Forward aerial is very strong when hitting clean, and is also a [[meteor smash]] on aerial opponents when sweetspotted. Like down aerial, it autocancels from a full jump and has low landing lag in relation to its range and power, however, it has the slowest startup of his aerials, making it his riskiest aerial to use regardless.
 
His grounded moveset is not quite as overwhelming. His [[neutral attack]] is his fastest attack, and the third hit can force a [[tech-chase]]. His [[down tilt]] is a low-profile slide and can be a great tool to put the opponent at a disadvantage. His [[up tilt]] is a reliable combo starter until high percentages, chaining into itself at low percentages, and comboing into [[up smash]] or his neutral, back and up aerials. His up smash, in particular, covers a very large arc, has decent speed, and high knockback despite its surprisingly low damage, making it his best and least risky KOing option out of his standard moveset. His [[forward tilt]] has decent power and speed, but has little utility aside from as a quick punish, or being used as a [[KO]]ing option at extreme percentages. His [[dash attack]] is a fast punishing tool from a distance and, due to its power, can put opponents in a bad position. It is easily punished when shielded or avoided, however. Cloud's [[forward smash]] is his most powerful non-Limit Break move, though to compensate it also takes the longest to start and is very punishable if it whiffs. His [[down smash]] is also prone to punishment if the front hit is avoided, but it drags the opponent into the back hit if it connects, the latter being a strong semi-spike.
 
Cloud's special moveset also offer interesting options. [[Blade Beam]] is a [[projectile]] with good range and activity, making it useful for forcing approaches, though it gets weakened over the duration and has high endlag, which hampers its otherwise useful utility. It also stalls Cloud in the air, giving it additional, if situational, utility in [[guard breaking]]. [[Cross Slash]] is very similar to [[Dancing Blade]] and [[Double-Edge Dance]], requiring additional inputs from the player to initiate the remaining slashes. In contrast, it has wider input windows, but the full move is only allowed to continue if all hits connect. It can also stall Cloud in the air, just like Blade Beam, though much more briefly. [[Climhazzard]] is similar to [[Aether]] and [[Final Cutter]], as it is an ascending slash, but differs from them in that it can be followed by an optional descending slash. This allows Cloud to mix-up his [[recovery]] and enables Climhazzard to function as his fastest [[out of shield]] option, though it is very risky to use.


In reference to ''Final Fantasy VII'', Cloud possesses a unique Limit Break mechanic. It manifests itself in the form of a gauge, which becomes visible while charging it to show its progress, similarly to {{SSB4|Little Mac}}'s [[Power Meter]]. Cloud can charge Limit Break by dealing 250% damage, receiving 100% damage, or by instantly charging it with his down special, [[Limit Charge]]. Unlike most other chargeable special moves, it can be canceled with a simple special move button press, or even [[instant charge-cancel|instantly canceled]] into an attack, the latter being a trait shared only with [[Gyro]]. After it is full, Cloud gets a boost in all of his movement attributes except for attack speed, allowing him to move very quickly across the stage and in the air, with his overall mobility almost rivaling that of {{SSB4|Captain Falcon}} and {{SSB4|Sonic}}. In addition, all of Cloud's special attacks are given a single-use power boost, with all of them dealing more damage and high knockback to the point of KOing reliably around 90%-120%. Limit Charge is also converted to Finishing Touch, a spinning slash with such tremendous knockback that can KO most characters around 60%-70%. It also emits a [[Windbox|whirlwind]] that pushes away opponents, making it harder to punish and providing Cloud a situational method of [[gimp]]ing weak recoveries. With the exception of Finishing Touch, all Limit Break specials are also granted brief [[intangibility]] upon start-up, as well as additional properties: Blade Beam is faster, stronger, and has [[transcendent priority]]; Cross Slash requires no additional button inputs and strikes five times immediately, has very low ending lag in relation to its immense power, and stalls him completely in the air; and Climhazzard grants more vertical distance and much more horizontal momentum, as well as having the ability to [[edge sweetspot]] at any time. With all these benefits underneath the Limit Break status, players must be wary of this, as one small slip-up from the opponent can give Cloud the perfect opportunity to strike and turn the tide of battle instantaneously, making Cloud's Limit Break a mechanic that should not be taken lightly when in the hands of a competent player.
In terms of general combat, Cloud has a noticeable advantage with approaches and aerial fighting thanks to his attributes. With one of the fastest [[dash]]ing speeds, quick [[walk]]ing speed, high [[jump]] height (almost on par with {{SSB4|Falco}}) and effective low [[short hop]]s, Cloud has one of the better approaching speeds in the game, both on the ground and in the air. This compliments his high disjointed range courtesy of the Buster Sword, which provides great reach to space opponents out, which is further evident in his powerful aerials that benefit greatly from his good range. This makes him especially adept at [[edgeguarding]] (in a similar line to {{SSB4|Shulk}}), as most of his aerials have quick startup, meteor smashing potential, and the ability to auto-cancel, making them effective aerial tools. His grounded game is also surprisingly fast for a high ranged character, with his jab and down tilt being effective at quickly covering missed attacks, while his down throw and up tilt can start combos at very low percent.  


However, Cloud has some severe flaws. The most prominent one is his poor recovery. Despite his aerial mobility and jump height is arguably better than most sword-wielding characters, his diagonal speed remains slow when compared to them, making him prone to [[edgeguarding]] and [[gimping]], and making it mandatory to stay a safe distance within reaching the edge. Climhazzard is also a terrible recovery move for many reasons: it grants below-average vertical distance, little horizontal momentum, its ascending hit is completely incapable of edge sweetspotting, and its descending hit cannot edge sweetspot until it covers some prior distance. Additionally, if for any reason Cloud gets hit at the apex of Climhazzard, he is not able to tech a single-hit move regardless of how far or near he is to a wall, although he can still tech if he gets hit by a command grab or a multiple hit move. These factors make Cloud's recovery somewhat comparable to that of Little Mac, {{SSB4|Ganondorf}} and {{SSB4|Dr. Mario}}, in the sense that it is one of the riskiest and most ineffective without use of his [[wall jump]] or Limit Break Climhazzard (which loses the active hitbox near the end of his ascent, making it less safe than the regular Climhazzard in some situations). Cloud can stall his descent with Blade Beam and Cross Slash, although they only do so after one use. Additionally, the former's slower start-up and ending lag can make its use problematic against opponents already close to the edge or in prime position to reflect it, while the latter slows down his air speed significantly. The last problem about his recovery is that if he gets grabbed near the edge without his double jump and gets air released, he will not be able to return to the stage unless he properly times a Blade Beam to stall towards the edge, uses aerials or air dodges to reset his momentum, or possesses a Limit Break.
While his smash attacks aren't all that fast compared to non-swordfighters, they actually have great startup and endlag for the range and power they possess, making his forward and upsmashes even safe on shield when spaced correctly. His forward smash has incredible knockback, making it one of best KO moves if used correctly, his up smash has a large and effective hitbox, and his down smash spells trouble for opponents with poor horizontal recovery (and near the ledge it can even stage spike recovering opponents). His low damage-fallout projectile in [[Blade Beam]] means he isn't helpless at longer range, while he has reliable options for damage racking: his up tilt, neutral aerial, [[Climhazzard]] and [[Cross Slash]] are all effective damage rackers (with the previous two being good [[out of shield]]s) whose low knockback growth allow them to combo even at extremely high percents, making Cloud all-rounded at approaching and protecting himself.


Another glaring flaw is his grab game. Cloud's grab range is abysmally short, having the third shortest overall in the game. His throws' damage outputs are only average at best, and barring down throw at low percents, they lack any sort of combo potential, making them comparable to {{SSB4|Jigglypuff}}'s throws in regard to inefficiency. His forward and back throws' decent speed are significantly offset by the problematic combination of their virtual lack of combo potential and low knockback scaling. Additionally, both fail to KO before 300%, unless the opponent is light and Cloud is at the edge upon performing them. His up and down throws both have misleading power, failing to KO until well beyond 200%. Up throw has too much ending lag for reliably comboing, while down throw doesn't have reliable combos at low percentages and loses all of its combo potential past low-mid percentages if the opponent DIs properly.
As previously mentioned, Cloud's Limit Break mechanic is his primary way of finishing opponents off, outside of edgeguarding. Working similarly to {{SSB4|Little Mac}}'s [[Power Meter]], he has the advantage of being able to manually charge it through his down special. Once it reaches full capacity, all his specials gain large boosts in utility, through increases in damage and knockback, improved recovery, higher priority, and better KO ability, and he also gains a slight boost to his stats. All said specials have minimal startup time, impressive range, and overwhelming power (some as strong as {{SSB4|Ganondorf}}'s), giving Cloud four additional and immensely effective finishers while under Limit Break's effects, making him a powerful comeback character.


Despite his huge range, projectile and combo options granting him a strong neutral game, Cloud has a below average approach at best. His approach options are linear, with dash attack being easily punishable, neutral aerial having a hitbox that starts from behind, up aerial being very predictable and being surprisingly punishable on shield if not spaced well, and having other attacks that either lack the frame data or the utility to be used as reliable options for approaching such as his poor grab game. Cloud also has no reliable means of escaping pressure. His neutral attack and down tilt are his fastest ground options, while Climhazzard can work as an out of shield option. However, they are noticeably unsafe on shield, while none of his fast aerial attacks start from the front or below him. Down aerial's late hitbox can be used to escape juggling directly from below him, but its otherwise narrow hitbox allows opponents to hit Cloud laterally. Thus, Cloud is fairly easy to combo, and is just as easily forced on the defensive if his attacks are improperly spaced. While Cloud also possesses an abundance of strong finishers, his KOing ability is somewhat inconsistent. None of his strongest finishers are easy to land in the [[neutral game]] and they can be easily punished if avoided or shielded, his weaker moves such as his forward tilt and back aerial require good positioning to KO reliably, and he lacks reliable set-ups into his strongest or best finishers.
While this skill has a high chance of turning the tides in his favor, Cloud can have trouble executing Limit Break charges in high pressure situations, and connecting the finishers in the first place. While the gauge can be filled in multiple ways such as damage taken, Cloud has to survive 100% of damage before it fills completely, which naturally puts him at a severe disadvantage. Other options include dealing damage, although he must do a lot of it before the gauge fills (250%), or manually charging the gauge with Limit Charge (6 seconds of charging), which can often be difficult while being pressured by faster characters like {{SSB4|Fox}}. Though while grounded or airborne he can quickly start and cancel his limit charge, giving him the ability to be mobile and active while charging in short bursts. Limit Break specials though are limited to one per charge, restricting Cloud to a single particular focus and forcing him to play mindgames with his opponents if he is to make any effective use of it. Furthermore, without Limit Break, Cloud has several issues that can occur if he uses his specials carelessly; specifically, if he is to overuse any of them, they lose utility quite rapidly, allowing opponents easier opportunities to read and punish, while the single-use abilities take a hefty amount of time to charge up again, making it necessary to land them lest he be burdened by another extended charge time.


Aside from Limit Charge, his special moves have some noticeable weaknesses. Blade Beam is relatively slow in regard to start-up and ending lag, as well as depreciating in damage over time or when used in the air. Cross Slash is not always consistent with linking all five of its hits due to SDI or landing different parts of the hitboxes, along with being very prone to [[stale-move negation]] due to being a very reliable damage racking option. In addition to its aforementioned weaknesses in regard to recovery, Climhazzard is also very punishable if shielded and easily DI'd out of, while all of his specials only boast KO power when they are boosted by the Limit Break. The Limit Break mechanic itself is also problematic. It acts as a double-edged sword, as it increases Cloud's fall speed and gravity at full charge, making recovery without the use of Climhazzard deceptively difficult, and rendering Cloud even easier to combo at medium percentages. It makes precise use of his special attacks mandatory, as his Limit Break specials are still blockable and possess limited range; while Limit Blade Beam can be used as a ranged KOing option, it can just as easily be [[reflection|reflected]] or otherwise avoided at the tip of its range, leaving Cloud wide open to punishment. Finishing Touch deals only 1% and has very high ending lag that renders Cloud vulnerable if the slash or whirlwind do not hit. Finally, Cloud lacks [[Character customization|custom moves]] like his fellow [[Downloadable content|DLC]] characters, and while this does not seem to be a problem considering his Limit Break-boosted specials, the lack of variety for the normal special moves does hinder his matchups against more optimized custom characters.
Other issues Cloud suffers from are polarized: while he has impressive aerial, damage racking and edgeguarding games, the same cannot be said about his KOing ability outside of Limit Break specials. This makes Cloud effectively good at getting opponents to KO percentage, but inconsistent at actually landing KO's, since his kill setups often rely on having a charged Limit Break available. Without charged Limit Break specials, Cloud relies on hitting his opponents far away in order to charge his meter, as without Limit Break his only reliable killing tool onstage is really his forward smash. Though when the opponent is hit offstage, even without Limit Break Cloud has impressive edgeguarding abilities that can net him kills. He possesses two strong, disjointed spikes in his forward and down aerials, and has many moves with long active frames that are effective at catching the 2-frame ledge snap vulnerability. And often he will be able to hit an opponent far enough offstage to have a charged Limit by the time they make it to the ledge, equipping him with deadly versions of down-b, side-b, and neutral-b, all of which can cover multiple getup options and put Cloud in a perfect position to KO (though even without charged Limit Break, his smashes are also effective at punishing ledge getups).


Overall, while Cloud has all the tools required to be successful, the player is forced to manage his resources to the best of their ability, and they must avoid being thrown off the stage at all times. His combo game and KOing ability, while unique and powerful, can sometimes be inconsistent. Even though Cloud has many playstyles applicable to him, the combination of all of the traits above make him a fundamentals-oriented character most of the time. His weaknesses, however, are still offset by his amazing strengths in his great range, quick frame data in proportion to his range, high damage output and power, and amazing mobility (especially under Limit Break status), with most smashers agreeing he has few losing matchups (the most prominent one being {{SSB4|Sheik}}). Much like {{SSB4|Mario}}, Cloud has a relatively low learning curve and skill floor that makes him an effective choice for beginners and inexperienced players, though due to the benefits that his most difficult techniques can offer when they are mastered, he continues to be one of the most viable characters in high-level play. His tournament representation and results are strong, with notable players like [[Smasher:Javi (Smash 4)|Javi]], {{Sm|komorikiri}}, {{Sm|MkLeo}}, {{Sm|Ned}} and {{Sm|Tweek}} all having placed high in national tournaments, and he is considered to be an even better character for doubles play, as his Limit Break specials are more reliable and easier to land at the end of a team combo, he can provide stage control and wall out the opponents for a teammate, and his teammate can assist him in recovering easily onto the stage. Thus, Cloud's doubles representation is much stronger in comparison to his singles results, with smashers like {{Sm|MVD}} and {{Sm|Nairo}} using him to great success.
Cloud also has a poor grab game outside of his quick grabs and good combo starter with down throw, as all his other throws cannot be followed-up upon and lack KO potential. His aerial game is similarly polarized, as even though his air game is effective, his recovery is lackluster due to his somewhat low air speed, while his only recovery move, Climhazzard, has below average vertical movement, no horizontal movement, and cannot grab ledges until the move is complete. The follow-up descending attack is also unsafe to use near the edge, as he cannot grab the ledge if he initiates too close to it, providing limited practical use of it offstage. Despite having a moderately high wall jump, Cloud can be particularly easy to gimp and/or edgeguard in most situations, given his Limit Break isn't charged, making it a double-edged sword for Cloud to fight offstage. Finally, Cloud's effective recovery being highly dependent on Limit Break Climhazzard is also a detriment, as it often forces him to activate a Limit Break charge to save his stock even if he was saving it for a different use.


==Update history==
Cloud also can be comboed and juggled pretty hard by characters such as Fox, Zero Suit Samus, and Mario, since he has no quick aerials that work as combo-breakers, and no effective specials he can [[B-sticking|B-reverse/wavebounce]] for aerial maneuvering. This can make it difficult for Cloud to land back onstage after being sent into the air, his only saving grace being his disjointed aerials
Cloud was slightly nerfed in update [[1.1.5]]. His up aerial deals less damage without any changes to its knockback values, which hinders its KO potential in exchange for allowing it to combo for longer. His KO potential in general was also slightly toned down, as forward smash, down smash, Limit Break Cross Slash, and most notably aerial Finishing Touch received reductions to their knockback. These nerfs, however, have not significantly impacted Cloud's viability, compared to the more severe nerfs to fellow top tiers {{SSB4|Meta Knight}}, {{SSB4|Sheik}} and {{SSB4|Bayonetta}} in updates 1.1.5 and [[1.1.6]]. As a result, while Cloud is slightly worse individually than he was at his release, he is considered to be overall better relative to the cast, and remains a viable character in the [[metagame]].


'''{{GameIcon|ssb4}} [[1.1.5]]'''
Overall, Cloud has access to incredible offensive options that can overwhelm the opposition fairly easily, but he suffers when he is forced into disadvantageous situations. He is a very volatile character overall, with both his survivability and kill power often revolving around his inconsistent Limit meter. He could be thought of as a good example of a "glass cannon": a character who is very strong but can also be killed easily.
{{UpdateList/1.1.5|char=Cloud}}


==Moveset==
==Moveset==
*Cloud has a unique [[fighter ability]] called the '''[[Limit Gauge]]'''. Over the course of normal play, the Limit Gauge will be filled automatically by inflicting or receiving damage. Alternatively, it can be filled manually by using his down special move, [[Limit Charge]]. When it is filled up, Cloud's body will emit a blue, fiery aura and he will gain upgraded, single use versions of his special moves alongside enhanced mobility for the duration of the charge.
*Cloud can [[wall jump]].
''For a gallery of Cloud's hitboxes, see [[/Hitboxes|here]].''
{{MovesetTable
{{MovesetTable
|game=SSB4
|game=SSB4
|nocustoms=y
|neutralname= 
|neutralname=Kick ({{ja|キック|Kikku}}) / Combination Kick ({{ja|コンビネーションキック|Conbinēshon Kikku}}) / Side Swing ({{ja|サイドスイング|Saido Suingu}})
|neutralcount=1
|neutralcount=3
|neutral1dmg=2%, 2%, 3%
|neutral1dmg=2.5%
|neutraldesc=Two alternating forward kicks ending with a clearing slash. Very good speed, and both kicks have good range, similar to {{SSB4|Ike}}'s neutral attack. Each attack after the first hit moves Cloud a step forward, further improving the move's range, although the sword strike has lower range than the two kicks.
|neutral2dmg=2%
|ftiltname= 
|neutral3dmg=3.5%
|neutraldesc=A side kick, followed by a mid-level roundhouse kick, followed by an outward slash. All hits are executed very quickly and have high range (particularly the kicks). The last hit can be used to [[tech-chase]] due to its low [[semi-spike]] knockback, but it's slow to end and can fail to connect at high percentages.
|ftiltname=Side Slash ({{ja|サイドスラッシュ|Saido Surasshu}})
|ftiltdmg=11%
|ftiltdmg=11%
|ftiltdesc=An inward slash. It has quick start-up, but moderate ending lag. It is Cloud's only tilt that has reasonable KO potential, KOing middleweights around 120% at the edge. It is based on his basic attack in ''Final Fantasy VII''.
|ftiltdesc=An outwards slash while taking a step forward. Quick startup, but moderate ending lag. Cloud's only tilt that can KO under 150%. KOs middleweights at 135% at the edge.
|utiltname=Top Slash ({{ja|トップスラッシュ|Toppu Surasshu}})
|utiltname=
|utiltdmg=8%
|utiltdmg=8%
|utiltdesc=An overhead arcing slash. Its hitbox starts behind Cloud with a larger front hitbox, although it does not extend beside Cloud and makes it unable to hit smaller characters beside him. It is fast and has a fairly large hitbox, although its knockback is lacking. It can reliably start combos, chaining into itself at 0% and into aerials at low percentages.
|utiltdesc=Swings the Buster Sword forwards in a fan-like fashion above his head. Hitbox starts behind Cloud, with a larger front hitbox. Fast with a decently large hitbox, although knockback is lacking. One of Cloud's most reliable combo starters, chaining into itself at 0%, and into aerials at low percents.
|dtiltname=Sliding ({{ja|スライディング|Suraidingu}})
|dtiltname=
|dtiltdmg=6% (knee), 7% (leg)
|dtiltdmg=6% (early), 7% (late)
|dtiltdesc=A [[Wikipedia:Dropkick#Baseball slide|baseball slide]]. His legs are intangible while the hitbox is active, and it will sometimes deal less damage if landed early. It has very quick start-up, propels Cloud a good distance forward, launches opponents vertically, and significantly lowers his hurtbox. Altogether, these traits make it useful as a [[punishment]] option, as well as a capable set-up option into aerial attacks.
|dtiltdesc=A ground-hugging forwards slide, similar to {{SSB4|Mega Man}}'s down tilt. Deals slightly more damage if it connects after the first few frames. Very quick startup and sends Cloud a good distance forward while keeping his hitbox small, making it useful as a quick and weak [[punishment|punish]].
|dashname=Vertical Blade ({{ja|バーティカルブレード|Bātikaru Burēdo}})
|dashname=
|dashdmg=11% (clean), 8% (late)
|dashdmg=11% (clean), 8% (late)
|dashdesc=Thrusts the sharp edge of the Buster Sword forward while holding it diagonally. It deals more damage at the beginning, has a lingering hitbox and its moderately high knockback enables it to KO at high percentages.
|dashdesc=Cloud slides to a halt, forcing the entire front edge of the Buster Sword forwards with two hands, as if parrying. Deals more damage at the beginning. Moderately high knockback, able to KO at high percentages.  
|fsmashname=Triple Buster ({{ja|トリプルバスター|Toripuru Basutā}})
|fsmashname= 
|fsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|3}} (hit 1), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|2}} (hit 2 center), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|3}} (hit 2 hilt), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|4}} (hit 2 tip), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|12}} (hit 3 tip), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|13}} (hit 3 non-tip)
|fsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|3}} (hit 1), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|2-4}} (hit 2), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|12-13}} (hit 3)
|fsmashdesc=Performs three extremely fast slashes in front of himself. The first two hits combo into the third, which has higher range and immense knockback for the move's start-up (19 frames). It is Cloud's strongest non-Limit Break move, KOing middleweights around 100% at center-stage, but it has high ending lag and deals below average [[shieldstun]]. Additionally, each hit is only active for one frame, which means it can be dodged entirely with a well-timed [[roll]] or [[sidestep]]. It resembles the depiction of Cross Slash in the ''Kingdom Hearts'' series, and may also be a reference to the effects of the Double Cut Materia in ''Final Fantasy VII''.
|fsmashdesc=Cloud unleashes a lightning-quick triple slash in front of him at a speed contrary to his sword's size. The final hit has slightly more range and carries all the knockback. Depending on where each slash hits, this move can do from 18-20% damage. Slight startup and moderate ending lag, but extremely powerful for its speed, KOing at 98% from the middle of Final Destination.
|usmashname=Upper Swing ({{ja|アッパースイング|Appā Suingu}})
|usmashname=
|usmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|13}} (early/tip), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|12}} (mid/hilt), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|8}} (late)
|usmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|13}} (clean), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|12}} (late), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|8}} (end)
|usmashdesc=Swings the Buster Sword upward in a wide arc. Has some startup (15 frames) and moderate ending lag, and its KO power is only average compared to most other up smashes, but it has long range in front of, above, and slightly behind Cloud. KOs middleweights around 125%.
|usmashdesc=Cloud swings the Buster Sword in a wide upwards uppercut. Good range and somewhat fast startup, giving him reliable aerial protection. The Buster Sword does weak damage at the end when Cloud holds it above his head. Moderate ending lag. Starts KOing at 125%.
|dsmashname=Double Thrust ({{ja|ダブルスラスト|Daburu Surasuto}})
|dsmashname=
|dsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|4}} (hit 1), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|12}} (hit 2)
|dsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|4}} (hit 1), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|12}} (hit 2)
|dsmashdesc=Kneels and thrusts the Buster Sword's hilt forward, then performs a reverse gripped thrust behind himself. The first hit launches opponents into the second, though it is possible to [[tech]] after the first hit, causing the second to miss. The first hit can [[stage spike]] with ease due to its angle, while the second hit is a semi-spike, making it useful for launching opponents with weak horizontal recoveries off-stage. It hits on frame 8, making it Cloud's fastest smash attack. KOs middleweights around 140%.
|dsmashdesc=Cloud crouches, then shoves the Buster Sword's handle forwards before stabbing backwards in the same direction. The first hit is designed to [[natural combo]] into the second hit. Cloud's fastest smash attack, and the second hit sends opponents at a [[semi spike]] angle, although it is hard to use for edgeguarding unless Cloud is facing towards the stage at the edge. Regardless, it is useful for sending opponents with weak horizontal recoveries offstage. The first hit's angle can [[stage spike]] with pinpoint timing.
|nairname=Circle Swing ({{ja|サークルスイング|Sākuru Suingu}})
|nairname=
|nairdmg=8%
|nairdmg=8%
|nairdesc=A circular slash around himself. It is long-ranged, very fast, [[autocancel]]s from a short hop, making it a solid all-purpose move that is difficult to punish. Unusually, the move has a [[frame speed multiplier]] of 0.75×, making it faster to execute in-game.
|nairdesc=Swings the Buster Sword in a wide arc downwards, starting from over his head and ending behind him. Weak, but its wide range and speed makes it very useful as an approach option and aerial tool, similar to {{SSB4|Shulk}}'s neutral air. [[Auto cancel]]s from a short hop, making it rather difficult to punish, although it can be difficult to hit grounded opponents while starting this in the air due to the hitbox starting above his head.
|fairname=Meteor Slash ({{ja|メテオスラッシュ|Meteo Surasshu}})
|fairname=
|fairdmg=14% (clean sweetspot), 13% (clean sourspot), 11% (late)
|fairdmg=14% (sweetspot), 13% (clean), 11% (late)
|fairdesc=Briefly pauses and then performs a downward slash. It is his slowest aerial to start, hitting on frame 18, but a sweetspot on the middle of the blade as it comes down powerfully [[meteor smash]]es aerial opponents. Grounded opponents are sent at a more vertical angle by the sweetspot. If contact is made once the blade stops, it deals weaker knockback. Its ending lag is moderate, though its landing lag is low for its range and power, and it autocancels from a full jump. It can be [[frame cancelling|frame canceled]] if hit with the sweetspot, allowing for more follow-ups. It closely resembles Braver, Cloud's initial Limit Break and Cloud’s attack animation when using the Deathblow Materia in ''Final Fantasy VII''.
|fairdesc=Cloud pauses, then slices downwards in front of him with the Buster Sword, similar to Ike's forward air. Has the most startup out of all his aerials, but sweetspotting right when the sword stops moving results in a powerful [[meteor smash]]. Wide range and meteor smashing properties makes this a decent offstage option. Moderate ending and landing lag, but auto-cancels from a full hop.
|bairname=Back Upper ({{ja|バックアッパー|Bakku Appā}})
|bairname=
|bairdmg=13%
|bairdmg=13%
|bairdesc=Turns around to perform an outward slash. Has very long range and good knockback, KOing middleweights at around 115% near the edge. This makes it an effective spacing and KO option. It also has low landing lag (14 frames), autocancels from a short hop, and can be used to perform a [[wall of pain]] at low percentages. It has limited vertical range, however, and its hitbox is only active for two frames. It resembles the sword strike he does during his Meteorain Limit Break.
|bairdesc=Cloud spins and swipes behind him with the Buster Sword. Good range and knockback, and a reliable edgeguarding attack due to its fast startup. Moderate ending lag, but can auto-cancel if done a few frames after starting a full hop. KOs at 130% at the edge.
|uairname=Lift Up ({{ja|リフトアップ|Rifuto Appu}})
|uairname=
|uairdmg=12% (clean), 8.5% (late)
|uairdmg=13% (clean), 9% (late)
|uairdesc=Thrusts the sharp edge of the Buster Sword's blade upward while holding it parallel to the ground. Has [[sex kick]] properties. The initial hitbox is notoriously large and the move lasts a deceptively long time, allowing it to cover air dodges easily. While the range shortens somewhat after the initial strike, it is still long enough to allow Cloud to [[shark]] through platforms, contest with almost any down aerial in the game, and easily combo and [[juggle]] enemies. The move hits quickly, has low landing lag, and autocancels in a short hop. It also has decent power behind it, KOing grounded middleweights at around 160%. Interestingly, it shifts most of Cloud's hurtbox significantly forwards on the Z-axis, allowing him to avoid certain moves. It is commonly considered one of the best moves in the game.
|uairdesc=Cloud thrusts the edge of the Buster Sword skywards with both hands, like his dash attack except upwards. Acts like a [[sex kick]], doing less damage as time passes. Surprisingly good horizontal range due to Cloud using the entire edge of his sword. Auto-cancels from a short hop, and can be used at the last second before landing to catch grounded opponents with the move.
|dairname=Under Stab ({{ja|アンダースタッブ|Andā Sutabbu}})
|dairname=
|dairdmg=13% (clean aerial sourspot, grounded opponent), 15% (aerial sweetspot), 8% (late)
|dairdmg=13% (clean), 15% (sweetspot), 8% (late)
|dairdesc=A downward thrust. Striking directly beneath Cloud with the first few frames meteor smashes aerial opponents, while the lingering hitbox hits opponents upwards and away, allowing the move to easily start combos or set up powerful KO moves at medium percentages. The move is often difficult to punish due to its high range, especially when autocanceled. KOs grounded middleweights around 135% when hit clean.
|dairdesc=A downwards stab similar in appearance to {{SSB4|Link}}'s down air. Striking with the Buster Sword as it comes down powerfully meteor smashes aerial opponents and deals more damage. Stays out for a while, allowing the move to hit opponents after the initial thrust.
|grabname=Grab ({{ja|つかみ|Tsukami}})
|grabname=
|grabdesc=Reaches out with his left hand. Has the third-lowest range out of all standing grabs, though his [[pivot grab]] has increased range.
|grabdesc=Cloud reaches out with his left hand.
|pummelname=Grab Knee Kick ({{ja|つかみひざ蹴り|Tsukami Hiza Geri}})
|pummelname=
|pummeldmg=3%
|pummeldmg=3%
|pummeldesc=A knee strike. Moderately slow, but one of the most damaging pummels in the game.
|pummeldesc=Cloud knees the held opponent with his right leg. Somewhat slow.
|fthrowname=Rocket Kick ({{ja|ロケットキック|Roketto Kikku}})
|fthrowname=
|fthrowdmg=4% (hit 1), 3% (throw)
|fthrowdmg=4% (hit 1), 3% (hit 2)
|fthrowdesc=A modified [[wikipedia:dropkick#Dropsault|dropsault]]. It has low knockback, usually used for positioning or throwing opponents off-stage. It resembles Somersault, a Limit Break used by [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Tifa_Lockhart Tifa Lockhart], one of Cloud's party members in ''Final Fantasy VII''.
|fthrowdesc=Cloud kicks the opponent forward while doing a backflip. Low knockback.
|bthrowname=Reverse Kick ({{ja|リバースキック|Ribāsu Kikku}})
|bthrowname=
|bthrowdmg=3% (hit 1), 3% (throw)
|bthrowdmg=3% (hit 1), 3% (hit 2)
|bthrowdesc=A spinning back kick. At lower percentages, it is capable of tech-chasing with Blade Beam or his dash attack against middleweights and heavyweights.
|bthrowdesc=Turns around and kicks the opponent behind him. Low knockback like his forward throw.
|uthrowname=Double Spin Kick ({{ja|ダブルスピンキック|Daburu Supin Kikku}})
|uthrowname=
|uthrowdmg=2% (hit 1), 2.5% (hit 2), 4% (throw)
|uthrowdmg=2% (hit 1), 4% (hit 2)
|uthrowdesc=A {{s|wikipedia|540 kick}}. However, it is unable to KO at reasonable percentages, and should the opponent be in the middle of the stage and be at such percentages (around 215% for middleweights), up throw will be more effective at KOing. It vaguely resembles Tifa's Waterkick Limit Break, albeit kicking vertically instead of horizontally.
|uthrowdesc=Two spinning kicks, sending the opponent flying upwards. Cloud's second strongest throw, though unable to KO at realistic percentages.
|dthrowname=Bash Down ({{ja|バッシュダウン|Basshu Daun}})
|dthrowname=
|dthrowdmg=7%
|dthrowdmg=7%
|dthrowdesc=A one-handed body slam. It launches opponents behind him with low base knockback; it is Cloud's only combo throw, though it is a lackluster one. It also KOs earlier than any of his other throws, especially near the edge, though still not until extremely high percentages. It resembles Tifa's Meteor Strike Limit Break, albeit performed while grounded instead of in the air.
|dthrowdesc=Forcefully slams the opponent onto the ground, sending them behind him. Low base knockback and Cloud's primary combo throw, as it can lead into a reversed tilt or [[Cross Slash]] until middle percents. Surprisingly, this is also his strongest throw at high percents due to high knockback growth, although it cannot KO until 215%.
|floorfname= 
|floorfname=
|floorfdmg=7%
|floorfdmg=7%
|floorfdesc=Swings the Buster Sword around himself before getting up.
|floorfdesc=Spins the Buster Sword around him before getting up.
|floorbname= 
|floorbname=
|floorbdmg=7%
|floorbdmg=7%
|floorbdesc=Swings the Buster Sword around himself before getting up.
|floorbdesc=Spins the Buster Sword in a circle before getting up.
|floortname= 
|floortname=
|floortdmg=5%
|floortdmg=
|floortdesc=Swings the Buster Sword around himself before getting up.
|floortdesc=
|edgename= 
|edgename=
|edgedmg=8%
|edgedmg=8%
|edgedesc=Performs an inward slash while climbing up.
|edgedesc=Swipes at the opponent's feet before pulling himself up.
|nsname=Blade Beam
|nsdefname=Blade Beam
|nsdmg=8% (grounded clean), 6% (grounded late), 6.4% (aerial clean), 4.8% (aerial late), 6% (Limit Break hit 1), 2% (Limit Break hits 2-6), 3% (Limit Break hit 7)
|nsdefdmg=8% (ground, clean), 6% (ground, late), 6% (air, clean), 4% (air, late), 19/15% (Limit Break, first target ground/air), 13/10% (Limit Break, after first target ground/air)
|nsdesc=Swings the Buster Sword upward and in front of himself in order to launch a green, crescent-shaped energy beam as a [[projectile]]. It comes out and moves rather slowly, but travels a long distance and has a large hitbox. It is stronger if used on the ground and hit early. The aerial version is slower and deals less damage, but gives Cloud a slight lift. Like most projectiles, it disappears on contact with an object or enemy. The Limit Break variant possesses [[transcendent priority]], moves much faster across the ground and hits multiple times, with its last hit having great KO potential. It is still weaker and slower when performed in midair, however.
|nsdefdesc=Cloud sends a blade of wind forwards, acting as a [[projectile]] that disappears upon hitting anything. Overall stronger if started on the ground and in the first few frames, while the aerial version is slower, deals less damage, and gives Cloud a slight amount of lift. When under ''[[Limit Charge|Limit Break]]'' status, the projectile becomes a much stronger, uninterruptable multi-hitting move with higher velocity that can KO at 110%, although the aerial version is still weaker.
|ssname=Cross Slash
|nsc1name=N/A
|ssdmg=4% (hit 1), 3% (hit 2-4), 6% (hit 5), 5% (Limit Break hit 1), 3% (Limit Break hits 2-4), 10% (Limit Break hit 5)
|nsc1dmg=
|ssdesc=Performs a downwards slash. On contact with an enemy, pressing the special button allows this slash to transition into a series of follow-up slashes, together spelling the kanji {{ja||kyō}} ("misfortune"). The full attack deals high damage and moderate knockback, making it a superb [[punishing]] option at close range. It is weak against shield, however, as all stages of the attack are slow and punishable if missed. Its Limit Break variant results in Cloud unleashing all five strikes with a single input regardless of whether he hits anything. It also noticeably increases both the damage and KO potential of the move, KOing middleweights at 100% from the center of the stage, while reducing the move's ending lag to such an extent that it becomes nearly impossible to punish without being right behind Cloud as he unleashes the move. Additionally, Limit Cross Slash deals a high amount of [[shield damage]], and the final hit has a slightly larger hitbox than the default.<ref>[https://twitter.com/ruben_dal/status/859110965501206528]</ref> It is commonly considered Cloud's most effective Limit Break move due to its abundance of positive traits, as well as one of the game's best moves overall.
|nsc1desc=
|usname=Climhazzard
|nsc2name=N/A
|usdmg=3% (hit 1), 4% (hits 2-3), 3% (hit 4), 6% (Limit Break hit 1), 7% (Limit Break hit 2)
|nsc2dmg=
|usdesc=A leaping reverse gripped slash. If the special button is pressed again, it is followed with a descending reverse gripped slash. The first hit deals set knockback that leads into the second hit, which has a sweetspot at the center of the Buster Sword's blade that meteor smashes opponents as Cloud descends. It is Cloud's primary recovery move, though it is notable for being very ineffective due to multiple traits: it grants poor distance with low vertical height and almost no horizontal momentum, and Cloud cannot tech any single-hit move if he is hit at the apex of Climhazzard's first hit, unless it is a [[command grab]] or a multiple hit move. Additionally, the descending slash cannot be cancelled and isn't able to sweetspot the edge until Cloud has fallen a certain distance with it, making it unsuitable to use offstage. Its fast startup makes it a good surprise attack when grounded, particularly as an [[out of shield]] option. Its Limit Break variant greatly strengthens the first (but not second) hit of the move (allowing it to KO grounded middleweights at around 125%), allows it to sweetspot edges throughout, and grants Cloud much greater vertical and horizontal distance.
|nsc2desc=
|dsname=Limit Charge
|ssdefname=Cross Slash
|dsdmg=1% (Finishing Touch)
|ssdefdmg=4% (hit 1), 3% (hit 2-4), 6% (hit 5), 5% (Limit Break, hit 1-2), 3% (Limit Break, hit 3-4), 10% (Limit Break, hit 5),
|dsdesc=Holds out the Buster Sword and remains still. This manually [[charge]]s the Limit Gauge. While the move is being held, a text box labelled "Limit" appears above Cloud, which contains an otherwise-invisible meter that denotes the current level of Limit and increases as it is charged. The Limit Gauge will reach full charge either by using Limit Charge for 400 frames (6.67 seconds), but can be alternatively filled by dealing 250% or receiving 100%, and each of these methods stack with each other. The move can be [[charge-cancel]]ed by pressing the [[shield]] button, hitting the control stick left or right (which triggers a roll), grabbing, or pressing the special button again (the latter of which has an 8-frame delay). When the Limit Gauge is filled, Cloud is surrounded by a blue, flame-like energy, and his speed and mobility receive a noticeable increase. As long as he is in this state, he has access to much more powerful, one-use variants of his special attacks, as listed above. Using any of these attacks will empty the Limit Gauge and return Cloud to his normal state, even if the move misses or is interrupted. The Limit Break variation of Limit Charge itself is an entirely different attack called '''Finishing Touch'''; Cloud slashes in an arc around himself, generating a large whirlwind that deals only 1% damage but deals tremendous knockback, enough to KO most opponents before 70%. The move hits on frame 16, but has very high ending lag and almost no shieldstun due to its damage output. The attack is weaker as a whole when performed in the air, however, KOing about 24% later when hit in front, and 36% later with the back hitbox. The attack's hitbox is deceptively large, and it generates a powerful [[windbox]] that extends even further beyond the Buster Sword's range, [[push]]ing opponents away. Finishing Touch's animation may be based on [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/finalfantasy/images/8/80/Cloud_Tornado_Limit_Sketch.jpg/ Tornado], an unused Limit Break in ''Final Fantasy VII''.
|ssdefdesc=Cloud strikes with a combo of slashes, which can continue up to five hits so long as the first slash connects. The slashes aesthetically spell out the kanji 凶 (kyo). Good damage and moderate knockback, but exceedingly weak against shields. When under ''Limit Break'' status, Cloud instantly unleashes all five strikes and the attack gains high power, able to KO at the edge from 75% onwards.
|ssc1name=N/A
|ssc1dmg=
|ssc1desc=
|ssc2name=N/A
|ssc2dmg=
|ssc2desc=
|usdefname=Climhazzard
|usdefdmg=3% (hit 1), 4% (hit 2, 3), 3% (hit 4), 6% (Limit Break, hit 1), 7% (Limit Break, hit 2)
|usdefdesc=A rising slash upwards, which can be finished with a downwards slash that sends opponents flying. The first hit deals set knockback, while the second hit deals more damage in the middle of the blade and less if near the hilt. The second hit can meteor smash when Cloud falls. Cloud's primary recovery move, although the downwards slash cannot ledge sweetspot until Cloud falls a certain distance, making it unworthy to use the second hit offstage. Vertical distance gained is also lackluster, and horizontal distance is nonexistent. However, when under ''Limit Break'' status, the first slash gains tremendous distance, greater horizontal movement and can sweetspot ledges, greatly improving Cloud's vertical recovery, and can begin KOing at 124% on the ground.  
|usc1name=N/A
|usc1dmg=
|usc1desc=
|usc2name=N/A
|usc2dmg=
|usc2desc=
|dsdefname=Limit Charge
|dsdefdmg=1% (Finishing Touch)
|dsdefdesc=Cloud poses and charges up his Limit Gauge, an invisible meter which can alternatively be filled by taking (100%) or dealing (250%) damage, similar to Little Mac's [[Power Meter]]. The charge can be cancelled by [[roll]]ing, [[sidestep]]ping or pressing the special button again. When the meter is full, Cloud gains a slight overall boost to all his stats and can use a more powerful one-use version of his special attacks. This move itself turns into the ''Finishing Touch'' when the meter is full, which is a large whirlwind that deals 1% damage but tremendous knockback, enough to KO opponents as early as 75%.
|dsc1name=N/A
|dsc1name=N/A
|dsc1dmg=
|dsc1dmg=
Line 148: Line 142:
|dsc2desc=
|dsc2desc=
|fsname=Omnislash
|fsname=Omnislash
|fsdmg=3% (hit 1), 2% (hits 2-15), 5% (hit 16), 4% (hit 17, falling), 10% (hit 18, explosion), 50% (all hits connect)
|fsdmg=3% (hit 1), 2% (hit 2-14), 5% (hit 15), 4-5% (hit 16), 10% (hit 17)
|fsdesc=Rushes forward at high speed and attacks, unleashing a series of slashes that concludes with a powerful, descending slash that triggers an explosion. At the beginning of the move, with a text box appearing above him that displays "Omnislash" as he proceeds to flings any opponents he runs into to the top of the screen. After the series of slashes, Cloud charges up a final slash, in which he descends and slashes the opponent downward to the stage and results in a huge explosion that launches the opponent. One of the most powerful [[Final Smash]]es in the game when successful, as it can KO as low as 22%. Unlike Marth and Lucina's Critical Hit, Cloud will dash off the edges of platforms if Omnislash is initiated next to one, and he cannot cancel the move.
|fsdesc=A final attack which works like a combination of [[Critical Hit]] and [[Great Aether]]. Cloud dashes forward at high speed, and flings any opponents he runs into to the top of the screen. After a series of quick sword slashes, Cloud charges up a final blow which sends him and his victims careening to the ground, causing a huge explosion that sends them flying with high knockback.
}}
 
===Stats===
{{Attributes
|cast = 58
|weight = 100
|rweight = 17-21
|dash = 1.8
|rdash = 5-8
|run = 1.97
|rrun = 10
|walk = 1.1
|rwalk = 30-32
|trac = 0.055
|rtrac = 28-33
|airfric = 0.009
|rairfric = 33-36
|air = 1.1
|rair = 14-19
|baseaccel = 0.01
|rbaseaccel = 10-54
|addaccel = 0.06
|raddaccel = 35
|gravity = 0.098
|rgravity = 18
|fall = 1.68
|rfall = 14-15
|ff = 2.688
|rff = 15-16
|jumpsquat = 4
|rjumpsquat = 1-13
|jumpheight = 32.5
|rjumpheight = 36-37
|shorthop = 17
|rshorthop = 20-21
|djump = 32
|rdjump = 37-38
|ellag = 4
|rellag = 1-46
}}
}}
===[[Announcer]] call===
{{audio|Needs announcer calls from other languages.}}
<gallery>
Cloud English Announcer SSB4-SSBU.wav|English/Japanese/Chinese
Cloud French Announcer SSBU.wav|French
Cloud Russian Announcer SSBU.wav|Russian
</gallery>


===[[On-screen appearance]]===
===[[On-screen appearance]]===
{{Appearance
{{Appearance|image=Battle Entrance (Cloud).jpg|desc=Falls out of the sky and catches his Buster Sword.}}
|desc=Falls from the sky and catches the Buster Sword with a flourish.
|char=Cloud
|game=SSB4}}


===[[Taunt]]s===
===[[Taunt]]s===
{{Taunt/SSB4
{{Taunt/SSB4
|char=Cloud
|char=Cloud
|desc-up=Twirls the Buster Sword in front of himself before positioning it on his shoulders while saying "{{ja|興味ないね|Kyōmi nai ne}}" ("Not interested"). It's the same animation of Cloud's victory pose from ''Final Fantasy VII'', and also resembles Cloud's official artwork for both ''SSB4'' and ''Final Fantasy VII''.
|desc-up=Twirls his Buster Sword and places behind his back, referencing his victory animation from ''Final Fantasy VII'', while saying {{ja|興味ないね|Kyōmi nai ne}}, ("Not interested").
|desc-side=Places the Buster Sword on his back and cups his hands together in front of him, generating a green glow. It is his spellcasting animation from ''Final Fantasy VII'', complete with its original sound effect and glowing energy field.
|desc-side=Places his Buster Sword on his back, places his hands together, and mimics the casting animation from ''Final Fantasy VII'', complete with the sound effect and the glow.
|desc-down=Places the Buster Sword on its tip and leans against it in a casual manner while scoffing. It resembles the cocky pose he assumes in many cutscenes throughout ''Final Fantasy VII''.}}
|desc-down=Stands his Buster Sword on its tip and poses in a casual manner while scoffing.}}


===[[Idle pose]]s===
===[[Idle pose]]s===
{{Idle
*Rubs the edge of his Buster Sword, similar to one of {{SSB4|Ike}}'s and {{SSB4|Roy}}'s idle animations.  
|desc-1=Pulls the Buster Sword back and rubs the edge of its blade.
*Holds his Buster Sword upwards in front of himself.
|desc-2=Holds the Buster Sword upward in front of himself with both hands.
|image-1=CloudIdlePose1WiiU.jpg
|image-2=CloudIdlePose2WiiU.jpg}}


===[[Crowd cheer]]===
===[[Crowd cheer]]===
{| class="wikitable" border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="1"
{{Crowd
|-
|cheer-us=Cloud Cheer NTSC SSB4.ogg
!{{{name|}}}
|cheer-jp=
!Cheer (English)
|desc-us=Cloud! Cloud! Cloud!
!Cheer (Japanese)
|desc-jp=
!Cheer (Spanish)
|pitch-us=Group chant
!Cheer (German/French)
|pitch-jp=}}
!Cheer (Italian)
|-
! scope="row"|Cheer
|[[File:Cloud Cheer English SSB4 SSBU.ogg|center]]||[[File:Cloud Cheer Japanese SSB4.ogg|center]]||[[File:Cloud Cheer Spanish SSB4 SSBU.ogg|center]]||[[File:Cloud Cheer German & French SSB4 SSBU.ogg|center]]||[[File:Cloud Cheer Italian SSB4 SSBU.ogg|center]]
|-
! scope="row"|Description
|Cloud! - Cloud! - Cloud! || Ku - rau -do! || Cloud, Cloud, y na - die más! || Cloud! *claps 2 times* || Forza Cloud! *claps 5 times*
|}


===[[Victory pose]]s===
===[[Victory pose]]s===
{{Victory/SSB4
{{Victory/SSB4
|victory-theme=Victory! (Final Fantasy).ogg
|victory-theme=Victory! (Final Fantasy).ogg
|victory-desc=A remix of Victory Fanfare from ''Final Fantasy VII'', which is itself a variant of Victory Fanfare heard throughout the ''Final Fantasy'' series. Unlike other themes, it plays continuously, replacing the results theme.
|victory-desc=A remix of the victory theme heard in ''Final Fantasy VII'', which is itself a variant of the victory theme heard throughout the ''Final Fantasy'' series. Unlike other themes, it continuously plays, replacing the results theme.
|desc-1=While facing the screen, Cloud twirls the Buster Sword with one hand and places it on his back while looking away from the camera, saying {{ja|悪く思うな|Waruku omou na.}} ("No hard feelings.") Based on his victory animation in Final Fantasy VII.
|desc-1=Twirls the Buster Sword with one hand and places it on his back, and says {{ja|悪く思うな|Waruku omou na}}, which translates into "No hard feelings."
|desc-2=While turning away, Cloud twirls the Buster Sword, places it on his back and then glares at the screen, saying {{ja|ついてないな|Tsuite nai na.}} ("Better luck next time.")
|desc-2=While turning away from the camera, he twirls the Buster Sword, places it on his back and then looks at the screen, while saying {{ja|ついてないな|Tsuite nai na}}, which translates to "Better luck next time."
|desc-3=Rushes forward, quickly slashes the Buster Sword twice, and then assumes a battle stance similar to his idle animation, saying {{ja|お前に俺は倒せない|Omae ni ore wa taosenai.}} ("You cannot defeat me.")
|desc-3=Slashes the Buster Sword twice and gets in his battle stance, while saying {{ja|お前に俺は倒せない|Omae ni ore ha taosenai}}, which translates to "I’m out of your league."
|char=Cloud}}
|char=Cloud}}


==In [[competitive play]]==
==Reveal trailer==
===Most historically significant players===
<youtube>nc3CY31kMJ4</youtube>
<!--This character has a fifteen player limit for this section. Before adding and/or removing a player, read these guidelines: https://www.ssbwiki.com/SmashWiki:Notability#%22Most_historically_significant_players%22_guidelines -->
{{clr}}
 
Cloud's reveal trailer references moments and characters from the ''Final Fantasy'' series, primarily ''Final Fantasy VII'':
''See also: [[:Category:Cloud players (SSB4)]]''
*The starry sky in the opening is a reenactment of the original opening to ''Final Fantasy VII'', which even includes the original accompanying music, "Opening - Bombing Mission".
 
*The trailer contains a "blurring" screen transition to the battle phase in which Cloud faces off against {{SSB4|Kirby}}, {{SSB4|Samus}}, and {{SSB4|Charizard}}, with Cloud situated opposite of the other three combatants. These instances reference [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Random_Encounter Random Encounters], battle sequences that are often seen in the ''Final Fantasy'' series. The screen transition itself is one that is observed during gameplay of ''Final Fantasy VII'' along with the accompanying battle theme "Let the Battles Begin!".
*{{Sm|ANTi|USA}} - Used Cloud as a secondary alongside {{SSB4|Mario}} and {{SSB4|Zero Suit Samus}}. Placed 1st at both {{Trn|CEO 2016}} and {{Trn|Get On My Level 2017}}, 3rd at {{Trn|DreamHack Austin 2018}}, 4th at {{Trn|2GG: Hyrule Saga}}, and 5th at {{Trn|DreamHack Atlanta 2017}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Elegant}}, {{Sm|Samsora}}, and {{Sm|MVD}}.
*{{SSB4|Zelda}} lying on her knees near Cloud laying on his back is a reference to a scene in ''Final Fantasy VII'', where Cloud falls from the [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Sector_5_Reactor Sector 5 Reactor] down into the [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Sector_5_Church church] and is found by [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Aerith Aerith] the Flower Girl, with [[Pikmin (species)|Pikmin]] representing flowers in the church. The [[Lip's Stick]] that Zelda is holding resembles the flowers that Aerith sells.
*{{Sm|Blacktwins|Canada}} - Co-mained Cloud alongside {{SSB4|Mario}} and is considered the best Cloud player in Canada. Placed 7th at {{Trn|Get On My Level 2017}}, 9th at {{Trn|Smash 'N' Splash 3}}, 13th at {{Trn|Shine 2018}}, and 17th at both {{Trn|DreamHack Montreal 2017}} and {{Trn|The Big House 8}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Mew2King}}, {{Sm|Darkshad}}, and {{Sm|SuperGirlKels}}. Ranked 10th on the [[Canada Smash Ranking]].
*Cloud grabbing Wario and throwing him off his bike before making off with it himself references the segment when Cloud commandeers the [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Hardy-Daytona Hardy Daytona] motorcycle to escape from [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Shinra_Headquarters Shinra Headquarters]. In ''Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children'', Cloud himself has the motorcycle [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Fenrir_(Motorcycle) Fenrir], to fit with his "Lone Wolf" motif.
*{{Sm|Javi|Mexico|p=Smash 4}} - Co-mained Cloud with {{SSB4|Sheik}} and is considered one of the best Cloud players in Mexico. Placed 4th at {{Trn|Canada Cup 2016}}, 7th at {{Trn|Smash Factor 5}}, 9th at {{Trn|2GGC: GENESIS Saga}}, and 17th at both {{Trn|2GGC: West Side Saga}} and {{Trn|The Big House 7}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|MkLeo}}, {{Sm|Larry Lurr}}, and {{Sm|Ally}}.
*Cloud being dizzy on [[The King of Red Lions]] is a reference to {{iw|wikipedia|motion sickness}} Cloud suffers in the [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Compilation_of_Final_Fantasy_VII Compilation of Final Fantasy VII].
*{{Sm|komorikiri|Japan}} - One of the best Cloud players in the world. Placed 1st at both {{Trn|Sumabato 12}} and {{Trn|Smashdown World}}, 2nd at {{Trn|2GGC: GENESIS Saga}}, and 3rd at both {{Trn|The Big House 6}} and {{Trn|MomoCon 2018}}.
*The [[Sablé Prince]] turning into a frog next to Cloud is a reference to the recurring [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Toad_(Ability) Toad spell], which transforms its targets into harmless frogs.
*{{Sm|Mangalitza♀|Japan}} - Placed 1st at {{Trn|Sumabato 21}}, 9th at both {{Trn|Sumabato 23}} and {{Trn|Sumabato 27}}, 13th at {{Trn|Sumabato Tokaigi Qualifier}}, and 17th at {{Trn|Sumabato 28}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|komorikiri}}, {{Sm|Choco}}, and {{Sm|T}}. Ranked 52nd on the [[JAPAN Power Rankings]].
*Odin's appearance after Cloud uses his casting animation is a reference to the ability to [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Summoned_Monsters summon monsters] in ''Final Fantasy VII''.
*{{Sm|Mao|Japan}} - Placed 5th at {{Trn|Sumabato 21}}, 9th at both {{Trn|Umebura 27}} and {{Trn|Sumabato Smash 4 Final}}, 13th at {{Trn|Umebura Tokaigi Qualifier 1}}, and 17th at {{Trn|EVO Japan 2018}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Abadango}}, {{Sm|Nietono}}, and {{Sm|Raito}}. Ranked 38th on the [[JAPAN Power Rankings]].
*Cloud fighting {{SSB4|Ike}} towards the end is a reference to the final battle in Cloud's mind between him and [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Sephiroth_(Final_Fantasy_VII) Sephiroth].
*{{Sm|Masashi|Japan}} - One of the best Cloud players in Japan. Placed 1st at {{Trn|Sumabato 26}}, 2nd at {{Trn|Sumabato 24}}, 5th at {{Trn|Sumabato 23}}, 7th at {{Trn|Sumabato 18}}, and 13th at {{Trn|Sumabato Smash 4 Final}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Shuton}}, {{Sm|Raito}}, and {{Sm|Etsuji}}. Ranked 15th on the [[JAPAN Power Rankings]].
*The segment in which Chocobos appeared references [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Chocobo_Woods Chocobo Woods], a location in ''[http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Final_Fantasy_III Final Fantasy III]'' where Chocobos and the [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Fat_Chocobo Fat Chocobo] can be found, and ''Smells Like Chocobos'' is a recurring quote in the series which references the fact that Fat Chocobo can only be summoned in places that "Smell like Chocobos" in Chocobo Woods.
*{{Sm|MattyG|USA}} - The best Cloud player in New England. Placed 7th at both {{Trn|Too Hot to Handle}} and {{Trn|Super FamiCon 2017}}, 13th at {{Trn|Super Smash Con 2017}}, and 17th at both {{Trn|Shine 2017}} and {{Trn|The Big House 7}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Kameme}}, {{Sm|Marss}}, and {{Sm|Light|p=Connecticut}}. Ranked 5th on the [[New England Power Rankings]].
**The fact that the Chocobos are on [[Gaur Plain]] may be a reference to the [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Chocobo_Farm Chocobo Farm] from ''Final Fantasy VII'', which is located in the grasslands outside [[Midgar]].
*{{Sm|Mew2King|USA}} - One of the best Cloud players during the first few years of the game's competitive lifespan. Placed 2nd at {{Trn|Endgame}}, 3rd at {{Trn|Enthusiast Gaming Live Expo}}, 5th at both {{Trn|Get On My Level 2016}} and {{Trn|Shine 2016}}, and 17th at {{Trn|Frostbite 2018}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|ZeRo}}, {{Sm|Ally}}, and {{Sm|Larry Lurr}}.
*{{Sm|MkLeo|Mexico}} - Co-mained Cloud with {{SSB4|Marth}} and is considered the best Cloud player in the world, winning {{Trn|2GGT: ZeRo Saga}}, {{Trn|IBP Masters Showdown}}, {{Trn|GENESIS 5}}, {{Trn|SwitchFest}}, and {{Trn|Super Smash Con 2018}}.
*{{Sm|Ned|USA}} - One of the best Cloud players in the United States. Placed 2nd at {{Trn|Midwest Mayhem 5}}, 5th at {{Trn|Endgame}}, 13th at both {{Trn|Showdown: Battle Royale}} and {{Trn|Smash 'N' Splash 4}}, and 17th at {{Trn|Frostbite 2017}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|ZeRo}}, {{Sm|Ally}}, and {{Sm|Larry Lurr}}.
*{{Sm|Purple~H|Germany}} - The best Cloud player in Europe. Placed 5th at {{Trn|SALT}}, {{Trn|Syndicate 2017}}, and {{Trn|PPT Berlin}}, 7th at {{Trn|Syndicate 2016}}, and 9th at {{Trn|Albion 2}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|S1}} and {{Sm|quiK}}. Ranked 7th on the [[European Smash 4 Power Rankings]].
*{{Sm|RAIN|Japan}} - One of the best Cloud players in Japan. Placed 5th at both {{Trn|Umebura 29}} and {{Trn|Umebura Smash 4 Final}}, 9th at both {{Trn|EVO 2015}} and {{Trn|Apex 2016}}, and 13th at {{Trn|Umebura 33}}.
*{{Sm|Ralphie|USA}} - Placed 1st at {{Trn|Xanadu - End of an Era}}, 9th at both {{Trn|Collision XV}} and {{Trn|Super Smash Con 2018}}, and 17th at both {{Trn|Smash 'N' Splash 4}} and {{Trn|Smash Sounds}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Ally}}, {{Sm|Mr. E}}, and {{Sm|Sinji}}. Ranked 7th on the [[New York City Power Rankings]].
*{{Sm|Tweek|USA}} - One of the best Cloud players in the world. Placed 1st at {{Trn|2GGC: MkLeo Saga}} and {{Trn|2GG: Hyrule Saga}}, 3rd at both {{Trn|Shots Fired 2}} and {{Trn|Royal Flush}}, and 4th at {{Trn|EVO 2017}}.
 
 
===Tier placement and history ===
Since his release, players saw Cloud as a high-tier character, thanks to his incredible combination of range, mobility, power, and Limit Break mechanic; the latter in particular was highly valued for its ability to not only grant his special moves KO potential disproportionate for and beyond his weight class, but also make them fast and safe, especially Cross Slash. Following his release, he started seeing strong results thanks to professionals such as {{Sm|komorikiri}}, {{Sm|Mew2King}} and {{Sm|Tweek}}, which led him to be ranked 12th on the first ''4BR'' [[tier list]], placing him at the middle of the B tier, confirming his high-tier status.


With the release of {{SSB4|Corrin}} and {{SSB4|Bayonetta}}, the subsequent nerfs to them and other top-tier characters, and various advancements to his metagame, Cloud became a very popular character in tournaments. His own nerfs did not seriously hinder him, and he remained a fundamentally strong character choice for both newer and professional players, the latter of which saw {{Sm|MkLeo}} formally picking him up. This was apparent with him appearing more frequently in the top placings of tournaments in comparison to some top-tier characters like {{SSB4|Sheik}} and {{SSB4|Zero Suit Samus}}, and consistently winning almost every major doubles event at tournaments. As a result of this spike in popularity and success, Cloud was ranked 2nd on the second tier list, placing him in the S tier; his tier rise was tied with {{SSB4|Palutena}}'s for the fifth highest between the first and second tier lists.
==Trophies==


Despite his success, Cloud's placement initially received mixed thoughts from the community, as his rather exploitable weaknesses held him back from consistently achieving top 8 placings in singles for several national tournaments, such as {{Trn|EVO 2017}} (the highest ranking Cloud being komorikiri, who placed 17th) and {{Trn|Super Smash Con 2016}} (the highest ranking solo Cloud being Tweek, who placed 13th). As his metagame progressed, however, Cloud's singles results became considerably more consistent, as players, especially MkLeo, Tweek, and komorikiri, started seeing more top 8 placements at national tournaments. Although Cloud would drop to 3rd place on the third tier list due to the rise of Bayonetta, his continued consistency would see him rise back to 2nd/3rd place on the fourth and final tier list, tying him with {{SSB4|Diddy Kong}}.
:'''Cloud'''
::''The protagonist of FINAL FANTASY VII, Cloud wields the enormous Buster Sword, a memento from his comrade Zack. Once a SOLDIER of Shinra, he now fights as a mercenary against the corporation he originally served. His decision to join AVALANCHE's insurgence, however, will transform his destiny.''


At the end of the game's main competitive lifespan, however, many players once again questioned Cloud's tier placement as his results as a solo main weren't as impressive compared to other characters such as Diddy Kong, {{SSB4|Sheik}}, {{SSB4|Zero Suit Samus}}, {{SSB4|Fox}}, and {{SSB4|Rosalina & Luma}}. Furthermore, several smashers pointed out that top players were getting better at exploiting the character's poor recovery. Finally, MkLeo and Tweek, two of the best Cloud players in the world, started to use Bayonetta more frequently, leading to a small decline in representation at top level play. Due to all of this, a few players such as {{Sm|Mr.R}} and MkLeo claimed that Cloud is overrated and that he should be ranked slightly lower while other players claim that his polarizing strengths are too strong for him to be ranked any lower.
{{Trophy games|console1=none|game1=FINAL FANTASY VII (11/1997)}}


=====Banned in Doubles=====
:'''Cloud (Alt.)'''
{{split|Wide-reaching character bans could have pages, see [[Talk:Steve (SSBU)]]}}
::''Filling the Limit Gauge allows Cloud to perform a Limit Break, supercharging his next special move. His down special becomes Finishing Touch. With a huge swing of his sword, Cloud summons a whirlwind that inflicts only 1% damage, but boasts brutal launch power. Go for a KO while his foes' damage is still low!''
In [[doubles]] tournaments, Cloud was considered by many players to be [[broken]] enough to ban. Cloud greatly benefited from having a teammate to alleviate his weak recovery and help land his Limit Break specials, a finisher to team combos, while Cloud himself can provide stage control and wall out his opponents for his teammate. Thanks to his many advantages, Cloud players consistently won ''Smash 4'' doubles tournaments after his release. This was evident with Cloud in ''Smash 4'' doubles [https://intheloop837.wordpress.com/2018/04/09/data-cloud-in-doubles-an-analysis/ being more dominant than Meta Knight in ''Brawl'' singles].
*{{flag|Canada}} {{Trn|Get On My Level 2018}} (double Cloud only)
*{{flag|USA}} {{Trn|CEO 2018}} <ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/ceojebailey/status/997598615362301952|title=Cloud banned at CEO 2018 doubles}}</ref>
*{{flag|USA}} {{Trn|Smash 'N' Splash 4}}
*{{flag|USA}} {{Trn|Shine 2018}}
*{{flag|USA}} {{Trn|DreamHack Atlanta 2018}}


==In Solo Modes==
{{Trophy games|console1=none|game1=FINAL FANTASY VII (11/1997)}}
===[[All-Star Mode]]===
In All-Star Mode, Cloud is fought in Stage 5 in the 3DS version or Stage 3 in the Wii U version if he has been downloaded alongside {{SSB4|Pikachu}}, {{SSB4|Ness}}, {{SSB4|Jigglypuff}}, {{SSB4|Sheik}}, {{SSB4|Ganondorf}}, {{SSB4|Mewtwo}}, {{SSB4|Charizard}}, and {{SSB4|Diddy Kong}}.


===[[Congratulations screen]]s===
:'''Omnislash'''
::''Cloud sets out to prevent Sephiroth from sending Meteor crashing into the planet. The fate of the world on his shoulders, Cloud confronts his enemy one on one. He unleashes a flurry of swift slashes before delivering the finishing blow. In Smash Bros., the final strike creates an explosion, launching nearby fighters.''
<center>
<center>
====3DS====
<gallery>
SSB4-3DS Congratulations Classic Cloud.png|Classic Mode
SSB4-3DS Congratulations All-Star Cloud.png|All-Star Mode
</gallery>
====Wii U====
<gallery>
<gallery>
SSB4-Wii U Congratulations Classic Cloud.png|Classic Mode
CloudTrophy3DS.png|Classic (3DS)
SSB4-Wii U Congratulations All-Star Cloud.png|All-Star Mode
CloudAltTrophy3DS.png|Alt. (3DS)
CloudTrophyWiiU.png|Classic (Wii U)
CloudAltTrophyWiiU.png|Alt. (Wii U)
OmnislashTrophyWiiU.png|[[Omnislash]]
</gallery>
</gallery>
</center>
</center>
==[[Trophies]]==
Cloud's default trophy is obtained by clearing Classic Mode as Cloud. His alternate trophy is obtained by clearing All-Star Mode as Cloud in the 3DS version or booting up the game after downloading Cloud in the Wii U version. The Omnislash trophy is obtained only in the Wii U version by clearing All-Star Mode as Cloud.
{{Trophy/Fighter
|name=Cloud
|image-3ds=CloudTrophy3DS.png
|image-wiiu=CloudTrophyWiiU.png
|mode=Classic
|desc=The protagonist of FINAL FANTASY VII, Cloud wields the enormous Buster Sword, a memento from his comrade Zack. Once a SOLDIER of Shinra, he now fights as a mercenary against the corporation he originally served. His decision to join AVALANCHE’<!--Do not change to a normal apostrophe, single-quote is used in the game-->s insurgence, however, will transform his destiny.
|gamelist={{Trophy games|game1=FINAL FANTASY VII|release1=11/1997}}
}}
{{clrl}}
{{Trophy/Fighter
|name=Cloud (Alt.)
|image-3ds=CloudAltTrophy3DS.png
|image-wiiu=CloudAltTrophyWiiU.png
|mode=Alt
|desc=Filling the Limit Gauge allows Cloud to perform a Limit Break, supercharging his next special move. His down special becomes Finishing Touch. With a huge swing of his sword, Cloud summons a whirlwind that inflicts only 1% damage, but boasts brutal launch power. Go for a KO while his foes' damage is still low!
|gamelist={{Trophy games|game1=FINAL FANTASY VII|release1=11/1997}}
}}
{{clrl}}
{{Trophy/Fighter
|name=Omnislash
|image=OmnislashTrophyWiiU.png
|desc=Cloud sets out to prevent Sephiroth from sending Meteor crashing into the planet. The fate of the world on his shoulders, Cloud confronts his enemy one on one. He unleashes a flurry of swift slashes before delivering the finishing blow. In Smash Bros., the final strike creates an explosion, launching nearby fighters.
|game=ssb4-wiiu
}}
{{clrl}}


==[[Alternate costume (SSB4)#Cloud|Alternate costumes]]==
==[[Alternate costume (SSB4)#Cloud|Alternate costumes]]==
Cloud's default costume is based on his appearance in ''Final Fantasy VII'' while accommodating some changes to his design originating from ''Dissidia Final Fantasy'', namely the redesigned SOLDIER logo on his belt and a redesigned pauldron. He has an alternate costume based on his appearance in ''{{iw|wikipedia|Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children}}'', known as "Cloudy Wolf" in ''Dissidia Final Fantasy'', which replaces the Buster Sword with the [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Fusion_Sword Fusion Sword]. It has two minor variants: one with a long sleeve covering Cloud's left arm to hide the visible signs of his [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Geostigma Geostigma], and the other revealing Cloud's left arm after he has been cured of Geostigma, as well as a red ribbon wrapped around it, which he and his party wear in memory of {{s|wikipedia|Aerith Gainsborough}}.
{|style="margin:1em auto 1em auto;text-align:center"
{|style="margin:1em auto 1em auto;text-align:center"
|-
|-
|colspan=8|[[File:Cloud Palette (SSB4).png|link=Alternate costume (SSB4)#Cloud]]
|colspan=8|[[Image:Cloud Palette (SSB4).png|link=Palette swap (SSB4)#Cloud]]
|-
|-
|{{Head|Cloud|g=SSB4|s=50px}}
|{{Head|Cloud|g=SSB4|s=50px}}
Line 349: Line 231:
|{{Head|Cloud|g=SSB4|s=50px|cl=AdventPurple}}
|{{Head|Cloud|g=SSB4|s=50px|cl=AdventPurple}}
|}
|}
 
Cloud's default outfit is based on his appearance in ''Final Fantasy VII''. He has an alternate costume based off of his appearance in ''{{iw|wikipedia|Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children}}'' (known as "Cloudy Wolf" in ''Dissidia Final Fantasy''). Said alternate costume has two minor variants; one with a long black sleeve covering his Geostigma-infected left arm, and one revealing said arm and the pink ribbon worn over it in memory of Aerith Gainsborough.
==[[List of Super Smash Bros. 4 character trailers#Cloud|Reveal trailer]]==
{{#widget:YouTube|id=nc3CY31kMJ4}}


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery>
<gallery>
SSB4 CloudSplashArt.png|Cloud's splash art.
Cloud amiibo.png|Cloud's [[amiibo]].
Cloud amiibo AC.png|Cloud's alternate [[amiibo]] based on his ''Advent Children'' costume.
Cloud unlock notice SSB4-Wii U.png|Cloud's unlock notice in {{forwiiu}} after downloading him from the [[Nintendo eShop]].
Cloud poster.jpg|Cloud's poster used on the official website.
Cloud poster.jpg|Cloud's poster used on the official website.
Cloud2.jpg|Cloud jumping alongside {{SSB4|Mario}}'s [[Fireball]] and {{SSB4|Samus}}' neutral aerial.
SSB4 CloudSplashArt.png|Cloud's promotional trailer splash art.
Cloud3.jpg|Using [[Blade Beam]] on {{SSB4|Charizard}}.
Cloud Advent Children SSB4.png|Cloud's "Cloudy Wolf" costume from ''Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children''. Note the different pose.
Cloud2.jpg|Cloud with {{SSB4|Mario}} and {{SSB4|Samus}}.
Cloud3.jpg|Cloud attacking {{SSB4|Charizard}} with Blade Beam.
Cloud4.jpg|Cloud on [[Final Destination (SSB4)|Final Destination]].
Cloud4.jpg|Cloud on [[Final Destination (SSB4)|Final Destination]].
Cloud5.jpg|Cloud on [[Midgar]], with Bahamut ZERO in the background.
Cloud5.jpg|Cloud landing on [[Midgar]].
Cloud6.jpg|Cloud alongside {{SSB4|Wii Fit Trainer}} and {{SSB4|Lucario}} around the Summon Materia.
Cloud6.jpg|Cloud with {{SSB4|Wii Fit Trainer}} and {{SSB4|Lucario}} all around the Summon Materia.
Cloud7.jpg|Using the [[Limit Break]]-boosted [[Cross Slash]] on {{SSB4|Ganondorf}}.
Cloud7.jpg|Cloud attacking {{SSB4|Ganondorf}}.
Cloud8.jpg|Cloud [[dash]]ing away from {{SSB4|Link}}.
Cloud8.jpg|Cloud appearing with {{SSB4|Link}}.
Cloud9.jpg|The last hit of Cloud's neutral attack.
Cloud9.jpg|Cloud on [[Skyloft]].
Cloud10.jpg|Cloud on [[Gaur Plain]].
Cloud_Screen-3.jpg|Cloud in a dizzied state on a boat with {{SSB4|Ness}} and {{SSB4|Wii Fit Trainer}} behind him, referencing a scene in ''Final Fantasy VII'' where he gets motion sickness.  
Cloud_Screen-3.jpg|Cloud alongside {{SSB4|Ness}} and Wii Fit Trainer on [[Wuhu Island]]'s boat. Cloud being in a [[stun]]ned state references a scene in ''Final Fantasy VII'' where he gets motion sickness.
Cloud_Screen-4.jpg|Charging up his Limit Break with his down special, Limit Charge.
Cloud_Screen-4.jpg|Using [[Limit Charge]].
Cloud_Screen-5.jpg|Using Cross Slash.
Cloud_Screen-5.jpg|Two Clouds, with one using Cross Slash and the other using the Limit Break-boosted Cross Slash.
Cloud_Screen-6.jpg|Cloud with a [[Mii Fighter]] wearing the Chocobo hat.
Cloud_Screen-6.jpg|Cloud with a [[Mii Fighter]] wearing the Chocobo hat.
Cloud_Screen-7.jpg|Using Blade Beam on Link.
Cloud_Screen-7.jpg|Attacking Link using Blade Beam.
Cloud_Screen-8.jpg|Standing on Midgar, with Bahamut ZERO in the background.
Cloud_Screen-8.jpg|Standing on Midgar with Bahamut ZERO behind him.
Cloud_Screen-9.jpg|Using Cross Slash on {{SSB4|Luigi}} in {{for3ds}}.
Cloud_Screen-9.jpg|Attacking Luigi with Cross Slash in {{for3ds}}.
Cloud_Screen-10.jpg|Using his forward tilt alongside {{SSB4|Villager}}'s [[Timber|axe]] on Villager's [[Timber|tree]].
Cloud_Screen-10.jpg|Cloud with {{SSB4|Villager}}.
SSB4 - Living Room TV.png|Using his up taunt on [[Living Room]].
</gallery>
</gallery>


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
[[File:Cloud (Advent Children) Screen KO.jpg|thumb|Cloud's screen KO, referencing his official pose.]]
*Cloud is the first character in the ''Super Smash Bros.'' series to not have a canonical appearance from his respective mainline series on a [[Nintendo]] console.
*Cloud makes a few references to his home game, ''Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children'', and the ''Dissidia Final Fantasy'' games:
**Squaresoft originally planned to make ''Final Fantasy VII'' for the [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|SNES]] and eventually the [[Nintendo 64]], before moving the project to the [[wikipedia: Sony Playstation|Sony Playstation]].
**His pose in his official artwork matches his pose from his official artwork from ''Final Fantasy VII''. Conversely, the pose for his ''Advent Children'' costume resembles his official artwork from ''Dissidia Final Fantasy''.
**Cloud made appearances in several ''Final Fantasy'' spin-off titles for Nintendo consoles, such as the ''[[wikipedia: Theatrhythm Final Fantasy|Theatrhythm Final Fantasy]]'' games for the [[Nintendo 3DS]].
***Humorously, Cloud strikes a variation of the first pose when he is [[screen KO]]'d.
*Cloud is the first newcomer in ''Super Smash Bros. 4'' to have debuted in the 1990s, with ''Final Fantasy VII'' releasing in 1997.
**His attacks emit unique blunt sounds when they hit opponents, while his side taunt emits a unique sound when performed. These sound effects originate from ''Final Fantasy VII'', similarly to how {{SSBB|Snake}} and {{SSB4|Ryu}} emit sound effects from their respective home series.
*Cloud and [[Bayonetta]] are the only characters with [[alternate costume]]s that modify their models as opposed to simply their textures, and the only characters to sport a change of weapon in those alternate costumes as well - in Cloud's case, he goes from wielding the Buster Sword to the [http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Fusion_Swords Fusion Swords] from ''Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children''.
**His idle stance is identical to his battle stance in later appearances such as the ''Dissidia Final Fantasy'' series, leading with his left leg instead of his right as he does in his original appearance in ''Final Fantasy VII''.
*Cloud's pose in his official artwork matches his pose from his official artwork from ''Final Fantasy VII'', with the more slouched variation for his ''Advent Children'' costume resembling his ''Dissidia'' artwork. This pose is also used as one of his taunts, and humorously his [[Screen KO]] pose.  
**The greenish coloration of the Buster Sword's trail is a reference to [http://finalfantasy.fandom.com/wiki/Mako Mako], a liquid that is used as the primary energy source within ''Final Fantasy VII''. It also possesses the ability to grant superhuman abilities to humans via genetic experimentation, especially when used in conjunction with Jenova cells, a process which granted Cloud his superhuman abilities.
*Cloud is the second DLC character from a [[universe]] that has been newly added to ''SSB4'', preceded by [[Ryu]], and succeeded by [[Bayonetta]].
**Cloud's body emits blue Mako when his Limit Break is fully charged. This is a reference to his final battle against [[Sephiroth]] in ''Advent Children''.
*Despite having an official English voice actor in his home series, Steve Burton, Cloud is the only non-Fire Emblem character to still speak Japanese in all versions of the game. This is similar to [[Mewtwo]]'s situation, although its Japanese dialogue is removed in international versions.
**His on-screen appearance, which has him landing and then catching the Buster Sword, is a reference to the end of his battle against Sephiroth in ''Advent Children'', where the separated blades of the Fusion Swords strike around him and he catches the "core" blade as it falls.
*Cloud is the only character to have a victory theme that plays continuously.
**Cloud glides forwards when he [[dash]]es. This is a reference to the dashing mechanic in the ''Dissidia Final Fantasy'' games, where all characters dash in a manner akin to flying, which can also be performed in midair.
*When Cloud completes Classic or All-Star mode, the "Congratulations" message will be written in the {{uv|Final Fantasy}} font. It even uses the meteor seen in the background of the ''Final Fantasy VII'' logo.
*Cloud and {{SSB4|Bayonetta}} are the only characters with alternate costumes that sport a change of weapon. In Cloud's case, his ''Advent Children'' costume sees him wield the Fusion Swords from that movie instead of the Buster Sword, though they cannot be separated into their individual components.
*Cloud is the only character in ''[[SSB4]]'' who poses differently in his artwork when wearing an alternate costume that only changes his outfit.
*Cloud is the second DLC character from a newly added [[universe]], succeeding Ryu and preceding Bayonetta.
**He is the second character in the entire series to do this, following {{SSBB|Wario}} in ''Brawl''.
**He is also one of said characters to come from a newly integrated company, being [[Square Enix]], followed by {{SSBU|Banjo & Kazooie}} ([[Microsoft]]) and {{SSBU|Terry}} ([[SNK]]) in ''Ultimate''.
**While {{SSBU|Joker}} comes from [[Atlus]], as evidenced by their crediting in the copyright of ''Ultimate'', it is a subsidiary of Sega. The same applies to {{SSBU|Steve}}, who was created by [[Mojang]], which is also a subsidiary of [[Microsoft]].
*Cloud has an alternate [[KO|blast KO]] line in which he mutters ({{ja|ミスった|Misutta}}, "Missed it"), making him one of the few characters who says anything during a KO, and the only character to have a Japanese KO line in non-Japanese versions of the game.
*Cloud and {{SSB4|Little Mac}} are the only characters who have special moves that affect the in-game camera, with both [[Straight Lunge#KO Uppercut|KO Uppercut]] and all but [[Blade Beam|one]] of Cloud's [[Limit Charge|Limit Break]] moves zooming in and slowing down time upon hitting their targets. Notably, both characters' attacks involve dealing and receiving damage before they can be used. In ''Ultimate'', this feature would be given to multiple other fighters in the [[Special Zoom]].
*Cloud, Roy, Ryu, {{SSB4|Corrin}}, and Bayonetta are the only characters to use different sound clips when using battering items. Coincidentally, all of them are DLC.
**These same character's voice clips are in much lower quality than the rest of the cast in {{for3ds}}.
*Cloud is the only DLC character with an alternate outfit to not have a trophy with the pose made with the alternate artwork in both versions of ''SSB4'', with it only appearing in the Wii U version.
**He is also the only DLC character who is able to pseudo-[[crawl]] in ''SSB4''.
*In ''Smash 3DS'', if Kirby attempts to inhale Cloud but the move is interrupted by Cloud attacking, the Buster Sword will not make its usual blunt impact noises for the duration of the match.
 
==References==
{{reflist}}


{{SSB4Characters}}
{{SSB4Characters}}
{{Final Fantasy universe}}
{{Final Fantasy universe}}
[[Category:Cloud (SSB4)| ]]
[[Category:Cloud (SSB4)]]
[[Category:Third-party characters]]
[[Category:Third party characters]]
[[Category:Downloadable content]]
[[Category:Downloadable content]]
[[Category:Trophies (SSB4-3DS)]]
[[Category:Cloud]]
[[Category:Trophies (SSB4-Wii U)]]
[[Category:Square Enix]]
[[es:Cloud (SSB4)]]

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